Performing many of the same functions as curtains and shutters, window blinds are very useful accessories that we often take for granted. But before you buy those nice-looking roller blinds, there are a few considerations that shouldn't escape your attention.

Would it be cheaper or more practical to make my own?
Some people prefer to create custom-made blinds, either to cut costs or for aesthetic reasons. This is a particularly attractive option if you have windows of non-standard design, for which it may be difficult to find ready-made coverings.

Will they perform the most necessary function?
Different styles do different things. Like curtains, blackout shades are excellent for blocking sunlight. Faux wood blinds tend to be more durable than ones made from authentic wood. Matchstick blinds are widely valued for their look. Vertical blinds are more often seen on glass doors.

How difficult are they to clean or repair?
Again, different styles of blinds require different kinds of maintenance. Vertical blinds tend to be easier to fix or replace. Cellular shades (also called honeycomb blinds) can be hard to keep clean. Roller blinds also tend to accumulate dirt. Motorized blinds can be more costly to repair than ones that operate manually.

Do they come with a warranty?
Be advised that many "lifetime" warranties cover only manufacturing defects, not normal wear and tear. A limited-time warranty is likely to offer a wider range of coverage.

Are they safe?
Children and animals can become strangled by the pull cord or the inner cord connecting the slats. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found that horizontal blinds are especially dangerous, accounting for 60 percent of strangulation cases. To avoid this hazard, consider buying a cordless or motorized model. Also, buy the models endorsed by the organization Parents for Window Blind Safety.

Window Coverings AssociationOur association is the only association representing retail blinds dealers and manufacturers in Waco and nationwide. Our associates offer the best Window Blinds and coverings in Waco.

"I used this company rather than the regular off the shelf at the Home Depot. The blinds salesperson was excellent, worked quickly on my lunch break, and they were installed about 2 weeks later. It was worth the wait becuase they fit perfectly and the price was great! ..."

Window treatment services offer a wide range of window coverings or decorations, including blinds. An established service particularly offers custom-made blinds both vertical and horizontal. Custom services provide estimates and installation. Hardware or department stores with a wide range of window treatments like Roman, Venetian and mini blinds will generally offer advice and tips for installation. They may also offer a service where there is an additional fee for installers to come out to the home. General one-stop shopping centers may just offer general standard measurement vertical and horizontal covering to protect rooms from too much outdoor sun. Discount stores often offer all varieties of blinds from roller shades to skylight blinds but without any installation services.

An expert in this field can counsel individuals on why blackout shades should go in the bedrooms and cellular shades in the children playroom. He should be able to take specific measurements for roller shades and patio blinds opposed to curtains. He should be able to inform customers on the best curtains for a particular window treatment. Installers know that wooden blinds like Venetian, faux, bamboo and matchstick fall in the same category. They should be able to advice that faux wood is the most reasonable but may not last very long. Individuals working in this field are usually trained on-the-job but should have a knack for computing measurements.

Fabric stores are an ideal counterpart to persons working as window covering or treatment consultants. Fabric stores stock materials that will create custom-made window coverings and treatments. Companies and individuals that work in window cover design have the joy of working with different people and helping them reach window treatment solutions.